Editor's note: This post is part of a series. We'll be releasing one of Worldchanging ally Andy Lubershane's original comics each week until the end of the year. While many of the issues covered in the comics have been discussed on Worldchanging in the past, we hope that you'll be able to use this new medium in a different way … whether it's in your classroom, on your office wall, or to help explain ideas to friends and family.

This week's cartoon is a special one, inspired by President Elect Barack Obama. Although a multitude of major issues deserve the attention of the incoming administration, we believe that none is more dire – or more integral -- than the issue of climate change. The time is now, and the Obama administration has shown a real dedication to moving forward at a policy level. To read what others are saying about this crucial opportunity for change, look up our recent posts covering suggestions from Bill McKibben, WalkScore and others, or read our collection 100 Words for 100 Days, which features expert advice from visionary thinkers like Paul Hawken, Bruce Sterling and Jacqueline Novogratz.

After eight years of stagnant feet-dragging, swift action is needed to address climate change at the global level. Join more than a thousand others who have signed our letter asking Barack Obama to deliver a vital message about climate change during his first speech as president. Help Inaugurate Change!

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Andy Lubershane researches, writes and cartoons about sustainability from his home in Boston. He can be reached at alubershane[at]gmail[dot]com.

Making the issue of climate change more accessible through graphically is really compelling. I love the idea of informative cartoons. For those of you interested in other visuals along the same lines to share with friends, family, or co-workers, a collection of 1-minute Climate Matters videos were sent to Obama (and all of the presidential candidates). The message comes across: climate change is real, and it matters. The fun lies in the diversity of voices and approaches-- stop animation, a focus on children, or gorgeous HD shots of the natural world. The videos can be viewed at http://vimeo.com/climatematters

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